Munster could have two Welsh Grand Slam-winning coaches on their management team next season amid reports Mike Ruddock is on their shortlist to take charge of the forwards.

Wales attack coach Robert Howley has been linked with the provincial giants in recent weeks and the Limerick Leader report Munster have made an 'informal approach' to Warren Gatland's right-hand man over the vacancy at Thomond Park.

And the newspaper claims Ruddock, who helped mastermind Wales' fairytale ride to the 2005 Six Nations Grand Slam, is being targeted to replace Jerry Flannery.

Former Ireland hooker Flannery and backs coach Felix Jones turned down contract offers to remain with Munster, leaving head coach Johann van Graan with two sizeable vacancies to fill for next season.

Wales attack coach Rob Howley (Image: Tom Martin/Wales News Service)

It has been reported that Howley has already spoken with Munster, and Van Graan recently revealed he had been “in constant contact” with Paul O’Connell and Ronan O’Gara in leaving the door ajar for them one day returning to Munster in coaching capacities.

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The Leader says sources close to Munster are also linking current Ireland Under-20s coach Noel McNamara to the forwards coaching role.

Reports across in the Emerald Isle say an experienced coach, who is currently plying his trade in the English Premiership is also in the frame, however no names have been mentioned.

Wales already have a forwards coach leaving these shores after the World Cup this autumn, with Robin McBryde departing the 2019 Six Nations Grand Slam champions to become assistant coach with beaten Heineken European Champions Cup finalists Leinster.